AI Factory for Modern Warfare

This video message was shown during the festive presentation of the AI factory in Groningen.

Gijs Tuinman, Secretary of State for Defence: “Technology plays a key role on the modern battlefield. AI is already changing warfare every day. It predicts when preventive maintenance of equipment is needed. It translates drone images into algorithms. In short, it is essential to stay one step ahead of opponents. To remain innovative and autonomous.”

Defence is focusing on crucial key technologies such as AI. The AI factory will provide significant computing power for the safety of the Netherlands and our allies. Defence underscores this importance by contributing €30 million to the AI factory. But other governments and the EU also share in the funding. Competitive AI is equally important for industry, the energy sector, healthcare, and agriculture. The location in Groningen contributes to Nij Begun, the Economic Agenda for Groningen and North Drenthe. In addition, the province provides the necessary energy capacity and sufficient space for the AI factory.

The AI factory will work with a large center of expertise and a supercomputer with as much computing power as 1.5 million iPhones. The center of expertise will be delivered in mid-2026 and the supercomputer in 2027. Then the AI factory will prove its value. For example, with AI models that recognize diseases faster, or that better combat weeds in precision agriculture. Or think of models that charge home batteries more intelligently. And do not forget the possibilities with which Defence can address the increasing physical and especially digital threat.

“The arrival of the AI factory is very good news,” said Secretary of State Tuinman.